May 31 Seasons of Growth: The Path to Spiritual Maturity

Carlene Lawrence
Berea SDA Church

Theme: Wisdom Through Life’s Journey

Scripture: Job 32:7-9 (KJV)

“I said, Days should speak, and multitude of years should teach wisdom. But there is a spirit in man: and the inspiration of the Almighty giveth them understanding. Great men are not always wise: neither do the aged understand judgment.”

There was a time when I found myself faithfully attending church, yet living a life that stood in contrast to the teachings of Christ. I knew the right words to say, the hymns to sing, and the Scriptures to recite, but my heart was far from surrendered. Outwardly, I looked the part. Inwardly, I struggled with choices that led me away from the path of life.

During those seasons, my grandmother remained a steadfast light. A woman of unwavering prayer and deep conviction, she often reminded me, “There is a way that seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death” (Proverbs 14:12).

Her words, often sown in quiet moments, never left me. They echoed in my spirit when I was tempted to stray further. As time passed, the Lord, in His mercy, continued to call me back to Himself. Like the Scripture in Job reminds us that wisdom does not simply come with age or experience; it comes when we allow the Spirit of God to breathe understanding into our hearts. True maturity is not about how long we have been in the church — it is about how deeply Christ has been formed within us.

Today, I rejoice in the work God has done and is still doing in me. The things I once clung to, I now gladly leave behind. The life I once lived no longer holds the same appeal. Growth didn’t happen overnight, but every season — even the painful ones —played a part in my journey toward spiritual maturity.

I am learning daily that the path to spiritual growth is not always easy, but it is always worth it. And as I reflect on the faithfulness of God, I am reminded that He who began a good work in me will carry it on to completion.

Reflection:

Are there areas in your life where you are still holding on to your own way instead of God’s way? How can you invite the Holy Spirit to lead you into greater maturity today?

Prayer:

Father, thank You for being patient with me in every season. Thank You for the people, like my grandmother, who spoke truth into my life even when I wasn’t ready to hear it. Help me to continue to grow in wisdom and in Your Spirit. Teach me to walk in the light of Your Word and to leave behind anything that keeps me from You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.